Good read. As a fan of sci-fi and a writer myself I'd say you discussed this topic well. Have you read much of James S. A. Corey? He handles long distance space travel and other aspects really well. Not sure it would technically fall into hard sci-fi for those that need to sub-categorize, but the technical side of travel, ships, and equipment is very smartly science based and believable. I really enjoy his Expanse series, and now those less apt to read can enjoy it as a television show (books are always better!)